Centuries-old gardens and structures have been revealed at various locations across England due to months of hot, dry weather. The phenomenon occurs when grass over old features, having shorter roots, burns more quickly than surrounding lawn, creating a visible contrast.
At the Bishop's Palace in Wells, Somerset, visitors have observed signs of 18th-century Dutch-style gardens, including gravel pathways and hedging. Head gardener James Cross noted that drone footage has shown previously unnoticed elements of these formal and symmetrical designs.
Similarly, at Glastonbury Abbey, collections manager Lucy Newman stated that the parched conditions have exposed traces of foundations, stone columns, and earlier excavation work, offering visitors a clearer understanding of the Abbey's past layout. Longleat House in Wiltshire has also seen the revelation of a 'leat' – a man-made stream – and the possible site of a watermill, along with 17th-century formal garden features.
Other sites reporting similar discoveries include the Chatsworth Estate in Derbyshire and Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire.